Dear Diary:

On early mornings, the path ringing the Great Lawn in Central Park is densely populated with unleashed dogs and their owners, all busily interacting. Trying to maintain a semblance of discipline amid the canine and human socializing can strain communication between master and dog.

On a recent outing, I heard someone calling, “Chester! Chester! Chester!” first sweetly, then with increasing intensity, and finally, angrily.

When no Chester appeared, the frustrated caller tried a new tactic: “O.K., Chester, I’m leaving. Goodbye. Have a nice life.”

Henry Sacks